Q&A: How could the fleets find each other?

How did the Carthaginians find the Roman fleet to engage it?

The fleets approached along predictable coastal routes, navigating mainly by shore and looking in the direction from which the other force had to come.

Both fleets moved along likely coastal approaches and could anticipate the other's broad direction. Very large fleets seldom ventured far from shore because only a limited number of navigators could manage open-water crossings for so many ships. Coastal landmarks made it easier to keep the formation oriented. Staying near land also offered a refuge where vessels could be beached when storms threatened.